Phenomene OVNI - No 13 - 4e trim 1980

Magazine Overview

This issue of CSERU (Comité Savoyard d'études et de Recherches Ufologiques) is identified as number 18, published in the 4th quarter of 1980 by AIHPI. The cover prominently features the title 'le phénomène O.V.N.I' (The UFO Phenomenon).

Contents

The table of contents reveals a diverse range of articles exploring UFO phenomena from historical and critical perspectives:

• 'Les OVNI du Passé : le double point de vue de l'historien-ufologue' (UFOs of the Past: The Dual Viewpoint of the Historian-Ufologist), Part 4, by Gilbert Cornu: This article, continuing a series, examines UFOs from both historical and ufological viewpoints. It discusses the 'acquis' of knowledge, the progression of human technological development, and the role of historians in understanding UFO phenomena. Cornu highlights the potential for historians to provide a broad perspective due to their encyclopedic knowledge and ability to draw parallels across different eras. He also raises the question of why the OVNI phenomenon seemingly 'exploded' in 1947 and draws a parallel with the spiritism phenomenon of 1847, noting the similarities in their timing and development.

• 'Requiem pour une blague', contre étude de Jean SIDER sur la thèse de Jean GIRAUD (sur la vague de 1897), suivié de quelques remarques de Christiane PIENS (Requiem for a Joke, a counter-study by Jean SIDER on Jean GIRAUD's thesis (on the 1897 wave), followed by some remarks by Christiane PIENS): This section presents a critique by Jean Sider of a work by Josiane and Joan d'Aigure, who are accused of attempting to 'demolish' the subject of historical UFO waves. Sider argues that the 'd'Aigures' thesis, which attributes these sightings to known aeronautical developments like dirigibles and balloons, is flawed. He criticizes their selection of cases and their reliance on potentially inaccurate translations. Sider emphasizes the difference between historical analysis and ufological investigation, noting that the latter seeks to uncover the 'deep nature' of the phenomenon.

• 'Hypothèse extraterrestre au rabais' (2), tribune libre de Jean GIRAUD (Discount Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (2), open tribune by Jean GIRAUD): This is a free tribune piece by Jean Giraud.

• 'C.S.E.R.U. NON STOP': This appears to be a regular update or section from the organization itself.

• 'la Magouille de CERGY-PONTOISE' (The Cergy-Pontoise Scam), by Mrs. Inès JADER: This article, along with a 'Post face' to it, likely investigates a specific alleged UFO-related incident or controversy in Cergy-Pontoise.

• 'Des enlèvements imaginaires aux kidnappés réels' (From Imaginary Abductions to Real Kidnappings), by Jean SIDER: Jean Sider explores the theme of alien abductions, distinguishing between imagined and potentially real experiences.

• 'Structures': A short section, likely on a specific topic.

• 'Bloc-Notes': A section for miscellaneous notes or short items.

Editorial Stance and Notes

The issue includes a quote from Erwin Schrodinger emphasizing curiosity, wonder, and the passion for discovery as key qualities of a scientist. The price of the issue is listed as 6.50 French Francs.

The 'NOTES' section provides references and clarifications for the articles. Notably, it clarifies that the article by Josiane and Jan d'Aigure, discussed in the 'Requiem pour une blague' section, was later published in INFORESPACE. The notes also detail various historical aeronautical projects and figures, aiming to counter the 'd'Aigures' claims. It highlights that many of the examples cited by the 'd'Aigures' pertain to periods outside the scope of the historical waves they are attempting to debunk. The author of the critique emphasizes the importance of consulting original historical sources and specialists in aeronautics.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of CSERU strongly advocates for rigorous historical methodology in the study of UFO phenomena. It critiques attempts to dismiss historical sightings based on limited or misinterpreted evidence, particularly those that attribute them solely to known technological advancements of the past. The magazine appears to champion a nuanced approach, acknowledging the complexities of both history and ufology, and encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration. There is a clear skepticism towards simplistic explanations and a defense of the validity of historical UFO reports when properly investigated. The editorial stance seems to be one of critical inquiry, seeking to separate genuine phenomena from misinterpretations, hoaxes, or overly dismissive rationalizations.

'Tribune Libre' is a publication that engages in critical analysis of various topics, often with a focus on ufology, history, and scientific theories. This issue, dated September 1980, features a debate on the "1896-1897 airship wave" in the USA, alongside a critique of Walter's book "Planètes Pensantes" and discussions on the evolution of life.

The "1896-1897 Airship Wave" Debate

The core of the issue revolves around the interpretation of numerous sightings of "airships" reported in the USA during 1896 and 1897. Jean Sider, in his contribution, strongly refutes the "d'Aigure" hypothesis, which suggests these were advanced, unknown craft. Sider argues that the "d'Aigure" authors have manipulated facts and relied on dubious sources, failing to consider the historical context of contemporary aeronautics. He points out that the media coverage was limited, and many rural areas were not reached by newspapers. Sider criticizes the "d'Aigure" for claiming pioneers hid their experiments, stating this is false and that figures like Thomas Scott Baldwin were recognized for their work.

Christiane Piens, a Belgian ufologist, echoes Sider's critique of the "d'Aigure" methodology. She highlights their tendency to conflate "balloons" and "dirigibles" and to overemphasize the role of the press. Piens suggests that the "d'Aigure" book, "Requiem pour une vague," is an attempt to prove Michel Monnerie wrong, rather than a rigorous historical analysis. She notes that the "d'Aigure" used limited sources and seem to have a biased perspective.

Both Sider and Piens emphasize the importance of consulting original sources and adhering to historical accuracy. They suggest that the "airship" wave was likely due to misidentified conventional aircraft, such as balloons and early dirigibles, and possibly hoaxes or misinterpretations.

Critique of Walter's "Planètes Pensantes"

Another significant section of the magazine is dedicated to a detailed critique of Walter's book "Planètes Pensantes" by Jean Sider. Sider challenges Walter's fundamental "hypotheses" about life, particularly the idea that life's essential characteristic is unpredictability, and that scientific laws are universal. Sider argues that Walter's approach is "axiomatic" rather than scientific, especially when applied to fields like physics and biology.

Sider disputes Walter's claims about the origin of life, particularly his assertion that life on Earth is a unique exception due to a "formidable hasard." He contrasts this with Jacques Monod's view, which also suggests life's rarity but does not invoke a divine "mysterious factor" as Walter does. Sider finds Walter's "mysterious factor" to be a thinly veiled appeal to a creator, which he deems unscientific.

Furthermore, Sider criticizes Walter's interpretation of evolution. He argues that Walter's view is archaic, focusing on isolated evolutionary lineages rather than the interconnectedness of ecosystems (ecology). Sider dismisses Walter's use of De Cayeux's curve, which suggests a continuous, accelerating evolution towards humans, calling it an "imposture" and "dangerous" because it encourages extrapolation. Sider contends that evolution is not a linear progression but a complex process with many dead ends, citing the extinction of dinosaurs and Neanderthals as examples.

Other Sections

Historical Aeronautics

An appendix provides a succinct historical overview of U.S. aeronautics up to 1910, listing key events and figures like John Wise, Thaddeus S.C. Lowe, Samuel Pierpont Langley, and the Wright brothers. This section serves to contextualize the discussion about early aerial craft.

Dreams and Psychism

Sider also critiques Walter's use of dream analysis and psychism to support his theories. He points out that Walter confuses the phase of paradoxical sleep (REM sleep) with dreams themselves and relies on outdated sources like Aimé Michel's work on dreams. Sider questions the scientific basis of Walter's claims about synchronized dreams between mothers and infants, suggesting the research is flawed or misinterpreted.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

'Tribune Libre' consistently adopts a critical and analytical stance, particularly towards ufological claims that lack rigorous evidence or rely on pseudoscientific reasoning. The magazine champions a methodology grounded in historical accuracy, scientific principles, and critical thinking. It appears to be a platform for detailed counter-arguments against popular or sensationalist theories, advocating for a more responsible and evidence-based approach to understanding phenomena like UFOs and the broader scientific questions surrounding life and evolution. The editorial stance is clearly against unsubstantiated claims and favors well-researched, logical refutations.

This issue of "La Magouille" (Issue 24, Volume 24, dated June 1980) is published by CSERU and focuses on a critical examination of the Cergy-Pontoise UFO incident. The cover headline, "de Cergy-Pontoise," immediately signals the main topic. The magazine adopts a highly skeptical and investigative stance, aiming to debunk the widely reported alien abduction claims.

The Cergy-Pontoise Incident: A Critical Analysis

The article begins by acknowledging the notoriety of the Cergy-Pontoise incident, which occurred on November 26, 1979. It states that despite the extensive media coverage and the claims of a UFO abduction, many experienced ufologists suspected a hoax from the outset. The author, Jean Giraud, details his private investigations, including access to Gendarmerie reports from interrogations of those involved.

Witness Testimonies and Contradictions

The core of the article lies in dissecting the testimonies of the three main witnesses: Frank Fontaine (the alleged abductee), Jean Pierre Prévost, and Salomon N'Diaye. Giraud meticulously points out numerous inconsistencies and contradictions:

• The Journey to Gisors: The stated purpose of the trip to Gisors (a market town) at 4:15 AM is questioned. The article argues that the timing is too early for a market and that the vehicle, a Ford-Taunus, was not suitable for transporting the alleged group and their merchandise. It suggests the trip was a pretext.
• Prévost's Role: Prévost, described as having a history of 'magouilles' (scams), allegedly admitted to using the blue-jeans sales as a cover for his activities. His account of the events, particularly regarding the car and Fontaine's disappearance, is contrasted with N'Diaye's.
• Fontaine's Disappearance and Reappearance: Fontaine claimed to have been abducted by a UFO and that his seven-day absence felt like only 45 minutes. However, his later statements about where he spent that time and his reluctance to undergo hypnosis or nicotine tests are presented as suspicious.
• The 'Luminous Fog' and Vehicle: The descriptions of the 'luminous fog' and the state of the car (doors locked or open, engine running or needing a push) vary significantly between Prévost and N'Diaye, suggesting a lack of coordination or fabrication.
• The 'Kidnapping' Narrative: The article questions the narrative of Fontaine being 'kidnapped' by aliens, noting that his parents and friends did not believe the story. It also points out that Fontaine had previously considered hiding to avoid military service, suggesting a possible motive for faking an abduction.

Financial Motivations and Media Involvement

Giraud strongly suggests that financial gain was a primary motive for the alleged hoax. He details:

• Book Deals: A book written about the incident, with Fontaine, Prévost, and N'Diaye as co-authors, is mentioned. The article estimates substantial royalties from this book, potentially exceeding 100,000 new francs. A second book by Prévost and another writer is also mentioned.
• Media Coverage: The magazine highlights that PARIS-MATCH paid the protagonists for exclusive declarations, reportedly 10,000 francs. There are also mentions of potential film deals, with director Claude Chabrol considering making a movie about the 'affair'.
• Conferences: The trio reportedly gave a series of paid conferences across France, further indicating a financial incentive.

Skepticism Towards Ufology and Psychoanalysis

The article expresses a deep skepticism not only towards the Cergy-Pontoise incident itself but also towards certain aspects of ufology and psychoanalysis.

• Critique of Psychoanalysis: The author is highly critical of psychoanalysis, calling it a 'superstition and a sect.' He dismisses the work of Walter, who attempts to interpret the incident through a psychoanalytic lens, as 'intellectual masturbation.' The article quotes Debray Ritzen, who denounces psychoanalysis as a pseudoscience.
• Ufological 'Magouilles': Giraud uses the term 'magouille' repeatedly to describe the alleged fabrication, suggesting that some within the ufological community are prone to creating or perpetuating such hoaxes.

Other Sections and Contributions

The issue also includes:

• News from the Ufological Community: Brief reports on CSERU meetings, the formation of a French UFO Federation, and news from Italy and China regarding UFO research.
• Critique of a 'Critique': Jean Giraud critiques a previous review of Walter's book, accusing the reviewer of incoherence and personal attacks, while paradoxically using similar tactics himself.
• Editorial Notes: The editor, Michel Picard, responds to criticisms, defending his stance and the magazine's approach.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are skepticism towards sensational UFO claims, the critical analysis of witness testimonies, the exposure of potential hoaxes and financial motivations within the ufological community, and a strong critique of psychoanalysis as a pseudoscience. The editorial stance is clearly that of a debunking investigator, determined to uncover the truth behind alleged paranormal events and to expose those who might be fabricating them for personal gain or attention. The article emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation, cross-referencing of evidence, and a critical approach to all claims, particularly those that gain widespread media attention.

This issue of "Phénomène OVNI" (Volume 2, Issue 6), dated November 1, 1980, focuses heavily on the Cergy-Pontoise UFO incident, presenting it as a deliberate hoax. The magazine is published by CSERU in France and features articles by Inès Jader and E. Sernadji, among others.

The Cergy-Pontoise Hoax

The lead article, "LA MAGOUILLE DE CERGY-PONTOISE" by Inès Jader, argues that the alleged UFO abduction of Frank Fontaine was a staged event designed for financial gain. Jader suggests that Prévost, influenced by his UFO-enthusiast brother, created a 'sect' as a cover for this operation, exploiting human naivety. The motive is presented as profit, a way for two young extremists to escape societal constraints. The article notes attempts by groups like Vorhillon and the Italian association Siragusa to connect with Prévost and Fontaine, with the latter even sending money, possibly to improve their tarnished reputations, especially given Eugenio Siracusa's alleged prison sentence for murder.

Jader questions the official response, specifically the GEPAN's involvement. She points out that the GEPAN sent two members to Cergy-Pontoise in November 1979, despite the case lacking ground traces, which is usually their focus. Furthermore, she questions why GEPAN has not published reports denouncing the alleged fraud, given that they supposedly had all the necessary information by January 1980. A CNES scientist from Toulouse also interviewed the witness in January 1980, adding to the layers of investigation.

Jader concludes that while strange things happen on Earth, UFOs are often not the cause.

Analysis of Alien Abductions

E. Sernadji contributes a postface analyzing "kidnappings" by UFOs. He notes that over 200 such cases have been reported, predominantly in the USA, with some involving animal mutilations. Sernadji attempts to establish a general schema for these incidents based on approximately forty detailed cases.

• Key characteristics of alleged abductions include:
• The event typically occurs in isolated, unpopulated areas, often involving individuals in vehicles on roads with low traffic.
• A time window exists, generally between 11 PM and 2 AM in spring/summer, and 10 PM to 3 AM in autumn/winter.
• The UFO allegedly 'neutralizes' the witness's mind, guiding the vehicle off-road to a hidden landing spot.
• Some cases, particularly from South America, mention vehicles being lifted.
• Witnesses are returned to their environment within 15 minutes to 7 hours, often found driving their vehicle, with memories generally confused or absent.
• Witnesses rarely recall being abducted by a UFO, and often have no memory of the event itself.

Sernadji emphasizes that only hypnotic regression can often retrieve these memories, a process he considers practically demonstrated. He notes that while some cases might be hoaxes, the schema developed provides a basis for researchers to determine the validity of abduction claims.

He contrasts the Cergy-Pontoise case with this schema, stating it does not fit, thus supporting Jader's conclusion that it was a staged event.

Distinguishing Imaginary vs. Real Abductions

Dr. Alvin H. Lawson's comparative table is presented, distinguishing between "imaginary" and "pretended real" abductions. Imaginary abductions are characterized by the witness being alone, feeling in control, having no time gaps, and experiencing no physical or psychological side effects or amnesia. Real abductions, conversely, may involve multiple witnesses, a sense of involuntariness, fear, time gaps, physical and psychological side effects, and amnesia.

Lawson's research, using hypnosis, suggested that many "kidnapped" individuals were merely projecting their imagination. However, he admitted that in cases with multiple witnesses, the sincerity of their accounts could not be doubted. He proposed two theories: either witnesses objectively perceive a real phenomenon but misinterpret it, or they share a collective hallucination related to extraterrestrial hypotheses.

Alvin Lawson also proposed a 'psychokinetic' explanation, suggesting witnesses might autosuggestionally trigger mental processes that mimic physical effects, similar to stigmata.

Research and Hypotheses

A 1980 meeting of American researchers, including specialists from MUFON and the Aerial Phenomena Research Organization, aimed to clarify abduction phenomena. They established four hypotheses:
1. Experiences are authentic but blocked by trauma or intentionally 'occulted' by ufologists.
2. Some shocking experiences might involve encounters with humanoid creatures, but most details, including 'messages', are subconscious creations.
3. Experiences are purely fantasy, drawn from personal memories or fictional accounts.
4. Narratives are conscious fabrications for profit or fame (hoaxes).

Participants generally favored the first or second hypothesis, focusing on cases where witnesses agreed to hypnosis. The article notes that Dr. James Harder, a leading abduction specialist, was not present but that the attendees had collectively interviewed over 100 abductees.

The specialists agreed that cases with multiple witnesses were the most reliable and listed precautions for investigating such incidents.

Characteristics of Authentic Abductions

• The article lists key characteristics found in most authentic American abduction cases:
• Rarely are there many witnesses; others in the vicinity are often 'neutralized'.
• Most abductions occur from cars.
• Various physical and psychological side effects are noted: migraines, temporary loss of senses, sleepiness, allergies, skin rashes, dreams, nightmares, hallucinations, and visual disturbances.
• Memory of the event is only retrieved after hypnotic interrogation.
• Abductees universally describe the experience as traumatic and frightening, impacting their nervous equilibrium.
• Most abductees wish to avoid publicity due to potential ridicule.
• Rare 'messages' from ufologists are often interpreted as subconscious reactions, though some might be genuine exchanges.

Physical and Physiological Effects

Dr. Richard Haines suggests that physical 'stigmata' might be caused by the witness's subconscious, a reaction to anxiety or fear. He also posits they could be a form of 'being-to-being' communication.

Dr. Leo Sprinkle, while acknowledging the possibility of trauma, fantasy, or conscious fabrication in some cases, found that none of the fifty hypnotized individuals he studied showed signs of psychosis or neurosis, nor did they appear to be fabricating. He believes hypnosis, despite not being a perfect tool, is the best method currently available to establish the truth or falsehood of abduction claims, provided certain precautions are taken.

Limitations and Conclusion

It is regrettable that some individuals claiming to be 'abducted' or 'contacted' refuse hypnotic interrogation, hindering research. The article implies that financial considerations sometimes take precedence over the pursuit of truth. Sernadji concludes that cases where individuals refuse hypnosis and financial motives are suspected are 'unexploitable' for research.

CSERU and Publication Information

The issue also includes information about the CSERU (Comité Européen de Coordination de la Recherche Ufologique), its structure, board members, regional delegates, and contact information. It details subscription costs for the magazine "Phénomène OVNI" (25 francs for 4 issues in France, 30 francs abroad) and membership benefits, which include access to the library, monthly debate conferences, and opportunities to participate in investigations. The publication is printed in France, with Nicolas Greslou as the director of publication. The legal deposit was in the 4th quarter of 1980.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme is the critical examination of UFO phenomena, particularly the Cergy-Pontoise incident, which is presented as a clear example of a hoax. The magazine adopts a skeptical yet investigative stance, seeking to differentiate genuine phenomena from hoaxes and psychological projections. There is a strong emphasis on rigorous research methods, including hypnotic regression, while acknowledging their limitations and potential for manipulation. The editorial stance appears to favor evidence-based conclusions and expresses frustration with cases that remain inconclusive due to refusal of investigation or suspected ulterior motives.